📚 5 Ways to Use Children’s Books to Spark Big Feelings Conversations

Because sometimes “I’m fine” really means “I want to scream into a pillow.”

If you’ve ever asked a kid how their day was and got a dry “fine,” you know you’re not getting the full download. Somewhere between snack time and nap time, feelings were felt, drama unfolded, and somebody probably got their blocks knocked over. But how do you get little ones to open up about those big feelings they haven’t learned to name yet?

Enter: the mighty children’s book.

Books are magical mirrors and windows—tools for connection that go beyond bedtime and “one more story, pleeeease.” Let’s break down five clever (and cozy) ways to use children's books to get those mini-humans talking about what’s really going on inside their tiny-but-mighty hearts.

1. Pause the Story for a “Heart Check” ❤️

📖 Try This: In the middle of the book, pause and ask, “How do you think she felt when that happened?” or “What would you do if that happened to you?”

✨ Why It Works: This gives kids a safe way to talk about their feelings without directly pointing the spotlight at them. It's like emotions in disguise—low-pressure, high-connection. And if your little one suddenly relates hard to the dragon who got left out of the dance party? Bingo. You’ve just opened a door.

2. Make Feelings Into Characters (Dramatic Voices Optional!) 🎭

📖 Try This: When you read, give voices or gestures to feelings: maybe “Sad” talks really slow, “Angry” stomps around, and “Excited” squeals like they won a puppy.

✨ Why It Works: Externalizing feelings makes them less scary. When kids can see and hear emotions as characters, it becomes easier to say, “I think Mad was in my belly today.”

Bonus: If you do it in a British accent or full-on sock puppet style, they’ll never forget it.

3. Match the Book to Their Mood 🌧️☀️🌪️

📖 Try This: If your kid is acting a little off or moody, skip the silly book tonight. Grab a story that mirrors what you think they might be feeling.

✨ Why It Works: Books can validate emotions that kids don’t have the words for. If they see someone else being shy, jealous, or even just having a bad day, it sends the message: “You’re not the only one.”

Even if they don’t say much right away, those gears are turning.

4. Create a “Feelings Shelf” in Your Home Library 📚💖

📖 Try This: Curate a little corner of go-to stories about sadness, anger, bravery, or joy—ones that name feelings clearly and offer comfort or tools.

✨ Why It Works: When books about emotions are always available, it normalizes the idea that feelings are part of everyday life. You might find your child reaching for “The Angry Octopus” after a meltdown—or handing you “The Worrysaurus” after a hard day. (Kids are wise like that.)

5. Let the Book Kick Off a Real-Life Story 🗣️✨

📖 Try This: After the story ends, ask: “Did anything like that ever happen to you?” or “Have you ever felt that way before?” You can also share your own moment first!

✨ Why It Works: Vulnerability invites vulnerability. When kids see grown-ups talking about their feelings (yes, even the messy ones), they learn that it's okay to talk about theirs, too. The story just opens the door.

Final Thought:

Children’s books don’t just teach ABCs or why the pigeon can’t drive the bus. They help little readers—and their grown-ups—understand themselves and each other. Think of stories as mini therapy sessions wrapped in cozy blankets and colorful pages.

So next time your kid says, “Again! Read it again!”... say yes. You might just be reading them the words they didn’t know they needed.

P.S. Looking for a joyful feelings-fueled story to start with? I Don’t Wanna Be A Grown-up. Yet. is all about loving the now, being a kid, and embracing all those “I don’t know what this feeling is but I’m FEELING it” moments. Grab it on Amazon or check out more at idontwannabeagrownupyet.com!